As in so many other parts of contemporary life, data-driven approaches are often presented as a means to resolve problems in urban governance, from civic participation to institutional accountability. In recent ethnographic work, we have been examining data practice in a large city with a particular emphasis on the challenges of meshing data practice with existing institutional frames. In this talk, I’ll discuss some of our early findings, highlighting the gulf between the rhetoric of smart cities and the practical work of urban governance.

Paul’s Lecture will be followed by light refreshments and conversation outside D Block, Gardens Point Campus.